Save Your Natural Tooth with Gentle Root Canal Therapy
Severe tooth pain or sensitivity may be a sign of an infection deep within your tooth. A root canal can save your natural tooth and relieve discomfort while preventing the need for extraction. At Smile Source Atlanta East, we provide comfortable and effective root canal therapy to restore your oral health and preserve your smile.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth) to prevent the spread of infection and protect the remaining tooth structure. The treated tooth is then sealed and often restored with a dental crown for added strength.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
You may need a root canal if you experience:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swollen or tender gums around a tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth
- Darkening or discoloration of a tooth
If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to abscess formation, jawbone damage, or even tooth loss.
The Root Canal Procedure
- Examination and X-Rays
- We assess your tooth and take digital X-rays to determine the extent of the infection.
- Local Anesthesia and Access to the Tooth
- The area is numbed to ensure a painless procedure. A small opening is made in the tooth to access the infected pulp.
- Cleaning and Disinfection
- The infected tissue is removed, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing
- The empty root canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent future infection.
- Final Restoration
- In most cases, a custom dental crown is placed to restore strength and function.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Relieves severe tooth pain and sensitivity
- Saves your natural tooth, avoiding extraction
- Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth
- Restores chewing and biting function
- A long-lasting solution with proper care
Aftercare and Recovery
After a root canal, you may experience mild soreness for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. To ensure proper healing:
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is placed.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment to complete your restoration.
- Continue routine dental checkups to monitor your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a root canal painful?
No, root canals are performed under local anesthesia, making the procedure painless. Most patients compare the experience to getting a regular dental filling.
How long does a root canal take?
The procedure typically takes one to two visits, depending on the severity of the infection and whether a crown is needed.
Can I drive home after a root canal?
Yes, you can drive yourself home unless sedation was used.
How long does a tooth last after a root canal?
With proper care, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime. A crown is often recommended to protect and strengthen the tooth.
Will my insurance cover a root canal?
Many dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy. Our team can help you check your benefits and explore financing options.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur.
Schedule a Root Canal Consultation Today
If you have persistent tooth pain or signs of infection, don’t wait—early treatment can save your tooth and prevent further complications. Smile Source Atlanta East provides expert root canal therapy for patients in Stone Mountain, GA, and surrounding areas.
